Kampot & Kep: Cambodia’s Coastal Treasures of Pepper, History & Peace

Kampot & Kep, Cambodia

🌿 Kampot & Kep: Cambodia’s Coastal Charm & Colonial Calm

Set against the backdrop of the Elephant Mountains and the Gulf of Thailand, Kampot and Kep are tranquil escapes famous for pepper plantations, crumbling French architecture, and dramatic sunsets. While Kampot hums with riverside cafes and creative expats, Kep whispers serenity with seafood markets and sleepy beaches.

🏞️ Top Attractions in Kampot

🚣 Kampot River Cruise
Float down the Preaek Tuek Chhu River at sunset for dazzling views of the sky, fireflies, and glowing reflections of the mountains.

🏰 Bokor National Park
A misty mountain park featuring the haunting ruins of the Bokor Hill Station, an abandoned French colonial casino with cinematic vibes, plus waterfalls and ancient pagodas.

🌿 Pepper Plantations
Home to the world-renowned Kampot Pepper. Visit La Plantation or Starling Farm to see how this prized spice is grown, harvested, and processed.

🎨 Old Town Kampot
Wander through charming streets lined with faded French buildings, hip cafés, art spaces, and colorful market stalls.

🐚 Top Attractions in Kep

🦀 Kep Crab Market
A seafood haven where you can watch crabs being pulled straight from the ocean and fried with Kampot pepper — an absolute must-eat.

🏝️ Kep Beach
Small and calm, this man-made beach is ideal for lazy afternoons. Locals picnic under the trees while vendors serve fresh coconuts and grilled seafood.

🧘 Kep National Park
Hike the jungle trails with sweeping views of the sea, butterflies fluttering by, and a good chance of spotting monkeys.

🧜 Famous Statue: The White Lady of Kep
This melancholy sculpture gazes out at the sea and adds mystery to the coastal road — inspired by local legend.

🍽️ What to Eat in Kampot & Kep

🦀 Crab with Kampot Pepper – A regional delicacy and culinary masterpiece.
🥬 Stir-Fried Morning Glory – Light and savory, a local favorite side dish.
🍜 Lok Lak – Cambodian beef stir-fry with lime pepper sauce.
🍦 Durian – Try it fresh or as a smoothie, especially in Kampot — they even have a durian roundabout!

🛍️ What to Buy

🧂 Kampot Pepper – Buy it straight from the source, packed for export or local use.
🧶 Artisanal Crafts – Handmade items like silk scarves, ceramics, and locally made soap.
📘 Books & Vintage Finds – Several quirky shops in Kampot cater to literary travelers.

🛏️ Where to Stay

🌅 Kampot:

Rikitikitavi – Colonial-style riverside boutique hotel.
GreenHouse Retreat – Bamboo bungalows nestled along the river.

🌊 Kep:

Knai Bang Chatt – Upscale seaside retreat with infinity pool and spa.
Veranda Natural Resort – Eco-luxury with forest views and ocean breeze.

💸 Budget: The Magic Sponge (Kampot) or Botanica Guesthouse (Kep) offer great value.

🚲 Getting Around

🚴 Bicycle/Motorbike Rentals – Ideal for exploring pepper farms, countryside, and coastal paths.
🛺 Tuk-Tuks – Best for short rides or guided day tours.
🚌 From Phnom Penh: Minivans and buses run daily (approx. 3-4 hours).

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

November to March – Cool and dry, perfect for beach days and outdoor excursions.
April to May – Hot, but lively with local festivals.
Avoid June–October for heavy rains (unless you love lush landscapes and solitude).

💡 Travel Tips

📶 Wi-Fi is available in most cafes and hotels.
🛂 Visa: Same rules as the rest of Cambodia (visa-on-arrival or eVisa).
🍽️ Dining Times: Restaurants close early — eat dinner before 9 PM.
🐒 Nature Note: Don’t feed monkeys, especially in Kep National Park.
👛 Carry Cash: ATMs exist, but many vendors in Kep are cash-only.

🌟 Why Visit Kampot & Kep?

Perfect for travelers who seek relaxation, local flavor, and natural beauty — without crowds. Whether kayaking in Kampot or feasting in Kep, these sister towns offer a refreshing alternative to typical tourist hotspots.